Do I need a trucking permit? Legal load limits.

Mississippi maximum load limits until a trucking permit is required:

Length: The maximum length permitted by the Mississippi DOT is 53 feet for trailers and 99 feet overall including the power unit.Width: The maximum allowed width is 8 feet 6 inch wide.Height: The maximum height permitted to travel on Mississippi roads and highways is 13 feet 6 inches.Weight: 80,000 pounds overall (GVW) and nor more than 12,000 pounds on your steer. Single axle limit is 20,000 pounds, tandem axle limit is 34,000 pounds, tridem axle limit is 42,000 pounds.Overhang: You are permitted to have a maximum front overhang of 3 feet and a rear maximum overhang of 14 feet and 11 inches legally.Notes:

Routine oversize and heavy-haul trucking permits.

These maximum dimensions/weights are considered routine oversize or heavy-haul trucking permits in Mississippi:

Length: Overall trucking permit limits for length are up to 120 feet.Width: You can now get routinely approved for up to 20 feet wide for some routes.Height: 17 feet is the maximum routine limit for permits.Weight: Steer: 12,000 pounds, single axle: 20,000 pounds, tandem axles: 48,000 pounds, tridum axle: 57,000 pounds, and up to 63,000 pounds if interstate only. Quadem axles: 64,000 or up to 72,000 pounds if on interstates only. Maximum gross weights on 5 axles: 113,000 pounds, 6 axles: 123,000 pounds, 7 axles: 128,000 pounds, 8 axles: 141,000 pounds. Over-weight dozers in most cases are allowed to be permitted with blade detached and included on trailer. IN many cases you for over-weight shipment a comprehensive, detailed review including drawings of the product, trailer and axle spacings as well as the route you prefer to travel will be required when filing for Mississippi heavy-haul trucking permits.

Overhang: Mississippi DOT has no set limitation for overhang for routine permits should not be a problem unless you intend on exceeding the law of 1/3 (no more than 1/3 of item being shipped overhangs).Notes: If you are not sure about any routes in Mississippi you can use their route checker here to look up your limits. For more documentation see; Mississippi oversize and heavy-haul permit regulations.

Mississippi superloads.

Mississippi superload information:

Length: When over 120 feet in length overall combined a superload permit will need to be filled.Width: If the shipment is in excess of 20 feet in width a superload permit will be required.Height: When in excess of 15 feet and 7 inches in height if you have a second dimension that is over the legal limit or depending on your desired route you may be required to file as a superload. 15 feet and 7 inches in height will require a route survey. Over 16 feet in height will reguire a route survey, letters from all pertinent utility companies and special approval from the MS DOT permitting department which may result in superload permit applications.Weight: Whenever a shipment is in excess of 141,000 pounds it will qualify as a superload and must be permitted as a superload in order to ship.Overhang: Overhang alone will more than likely not be a determining factor if superload permits are required.Notes: Always work with Mississippi state DOT proactively. They’ll do their best to get the shipment in the proper category and correct permit issued. Excessive weights must meet bridge analysis specifications in order to be safely transported.

All shipments that are oversize (and over 12 feet wide) being transported within the state of Mississippi are required to have signs. Sign dimensions will need to be at least 84 inches wide and 18 inches in height. All signs should have the words “OVERSIZE LOAD” on them and black letters that are at least 10 inches in height and 1 and 5/8 inches thick. All signs should have a yellow background with black letters. Red or orange fluorescent safety flags are required as well as and should be used on all four of the outer most extremities of the combination (front to rear) and mounted a minimum of 6 feet above pavement level. All safety flags should be minimum of 18 inches square in shape. If the shipment is in excess of 12 feet wide it is required to have flashing amber lights mounted on both sides of the rear extremities in all cases.

When pilot cars or escort vehicles are required.

Heavy-haul or oversize loads may be required to be accompanies by a escort vehicle or pilot car if:

QUICK REFERENCE

Length:

If in excess of 95 feet overall; 1 pilot car/escort vehicle will be required. Some routes will require 2.

If in excess of 105 feet overall: 1 pilot car and 1 escort vehicle will be required..

Width:

If permitted to travel during night hours 1 escort vehicle will be required when 10 feet or more wide.

If in excess of 12 feet and 11 inches 1 pilot car or escort vehicle is required.

If in excess of 16 feet wide 1 pilot car and 1 escort vehicle will be required.

Height: Mississippi state DOT may require 1 pilot car vehicle equipped with a height pole on some routes if over 14 feet in height. A route survey may be mandatory for shipments in excess of 15 feet and 7 inches in height depending on desired route..Overhang: If in excess of 15 feet in the front will require 1 front lead pilot car is required. chase escort vehicle is required. Some routes require 1 lead pilot car rather than chase.

DETAILED REFERENCE

Length:

Pilot cars or escort vehicles (front of rear depends on route and lanes) will be required whenever the overall combined length of the shipment exceeds 95 feet. If the shipment is in excess of 105 feet overall you may be required to have 1 front lead pilot car and 1 rear chase escort vehicle depending on route.Width: Over 10 feet wide anytime night travel is permitted requires 1 pilot car or escort vehicle. Over 12 feet and 11 inches requires 1 pilot car/escort vehicle. Over 13 feet wide requires 1 front lead pilot car on 2-lane roads or 1 rear chase escort vehicle on 4-lane roads.Height: 15 feet and 6 inches (over 15 feet and 7 inches requires a route survey) may require 1 lead pilot car depending on desired route. A lead pilot car equipped with a height pole will be required for shipments in excess of 16 feet in height.Notes: In some cases a rear escort can be eliminated by attaching 2 (5 inch) amber lights mounted on the rear of the shipment. If you plan to implement this option note that you are also required to have a monitoring device in the truck cab that confirms both amber light bulbs are in operation.

Pilot cars/escort vehicle certifications and requirements.

Mississippi law for pilot cars is very basic. We suggest you follow the federal pilot car and escort vehicle requirement guidelines but as of 2018 the requirements are as follows: A single motor vehicle equipped with a amber rotating or strobing light mounted at the top of the vehicle. Two red or range fluorescent safety flags mounted on the vehicle. A “OVERSIZE LOAD” mounted at either the top of the vehicle that does not obstruct view of the strobe/rotating amber light of a “OVERSIZE LOAD” sign mounted to the front when leading or rear when chasing (following) a oversized load. Signs must be covered when not in operation.

Legal travel times for oversize and heavy haul loads.

Travel times and restrictions for heavy-haul and oversize loads:

Daylight hours are define as 1/2 hour after sunrise and 1/2 hour before sunset. Travel is permitted on Saturdays with no travel at all permitted on Sunday. If your shipment is in excess of 12′ wide you may not travel on Saturday. You may not travel on the following holidays: New Years day, Memorial day, Independence day, labor day, Thanksgiving day and Christmas day. You may not move any later than 12 noon on any day that comes before one of these holidays. For shipments that are in excess of 12′ in width you are strongly encouraged to route your shipment around high traffic density areas and may not travel in areas of high traffic from 7 AM – 8:30 AM and again from 4:30 – 5: 30 PM with the exception of I-10 ( travel during these hours is permitted).

DOT contact information and notes.

Mississippi state DOT office permit contact information:

Mississippi Department of Transportation Permit Division
Post office box: 1850
Jackson, MS 39215Telephone: 601-359-1717 or Permits: 888-737-0061Office hours: 7:30 AM until 4:30 PMWebsite: https://www.expresspass.ms.gov/trucking/E-mail: msdotpermits@mdot.ms.gov
Central Daylight Time
Notes: To file for oversize or heavy-haul trucking permits online you must have a account already set up with MS state DOT. MS is a member of SASHTO.

The information contained in these pages is research information primarily for use by oversize and overweight trucking company drivers, dispatchers and pilot car companies. While every effort is put into maintaining the accuracy of this information you must absolutely verify this information with the Mississippi DOT Permits office before commencing movement.

Trucking company & pilot car directory.

Locate trucking companies and pilot cars in Maine:

Legal load limits.

Maine DOT legal size and weight limitations:

Length: 69 feet combined overall and the maximum length of your trailer can not exceed 48 feet.Width: 8 feet and 6 inches in the maximum width allowed by Maine DOT.Height: 14 feet is the maximum height allowed to travel in Maine legally.Weight: 80,000 pounds GVW is the maximum weight allowed without a permit.

Routine trucking permits.

Oversize and overweight trucking permits that are routinely issued by the Maine state DOT office:

Length: 125 feet in length is the maximum for a routine trucking permit.Width: 16 feet wide is the maximum for a routine permit and anything wider than this will require a police escort. If over 18 feet wide you will not be allowed to travel on the turnpike.Height: 16 feet high in the most on a routine permit (13 feet and 6 inches is the limit on the Maine turnpike) and this depends on your routing. If you are close to this or over you will possibly have to have a route survey done and you will be required to notify all utility companies that have obstructions along your route.Weight: Tandem axles: 52,000 pounds, tridum axles: 75,000 pounds, quadem axles: 100,000 pounds. Gross weight for 5 axles is: 130,000 pounds, for 6 axles: 140,000 pounds, and for 7 axles is the maximum gross weight allowed is: 167,000 pounds maximum.

Maine DOT superload information:

Anything that is over 125 feet long, 16 feet wide, 16 feet tall or over 125,000 pounds in weight is considered a superload by the Maine DOT. Permit approval could take 30 days depending on your proposed route and how far you want to exceed legal limits. You may wish to see: Maine state oversize and heavy haul trucking laws.

Permitted travel times and restrictions.

Maine DOT permitted travel times and travel restrictions:

One 1/2 before and 1/2 hour after sunset rule applies. With the exception of during the months of July and August you may travel on Saturdays and Sundays but may not during these 2 months. There is no holiday travel on the following holidays: New Years day, Memorial day, Independence day, Labor day, Columbus day, Veterans day, Thanksgiving day, Black Friday and on Christmas day.

NOTES: Turnpike travel: you may travel on the Maine turnpike during the daylight hours from Monday until Friday at 12 noon. You may not travel on the weekends. Max width if 14 feet 6 inches and for height see “Routine permits” above. You can reach the Maine turnpike office at 207-871-7771. Mobile home shipments can only travel on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and on Thursdays – after that you may not travel. Night shipments may be approved but have to clear the Maine state police for permission first.

When pilot cars are required.

If your shipment is over any of the following you will be required to have a pilot car or escort vehicle by the Maine DOT office.

If highway is divided, a single pilot car or escort vehicle is to be positioned at the rear of the vehicle. If the highway is undivided, a single pilot car or escort vehicle is to be positioned at the front of the truck and trailer.

NOTES: Signs must say “oversize load” in 10 inch high black letters on a yellow background.
They must be at least 7 feet wide by 18 inches high and posted on both the front and rear.
18 inch by 18 inch flags must be posted on all four corners of load. Pilot cars must have 2-way radio that has contact with at least a ½ mile range. The truck must have a flashing amber light on top of the cab.

NOTES: The Maine turnpike requires a separate permit and has its own size/weight limits. (800) 698-7747 or 207-871-7771. Permits can be purchased
at Maine Turnpike toll plazas. Cost is $10. Signs must say “oversize load” in 10 inch high black letters on a yellow background. They must be at least 7 feet wide by 18 inches in height and posted on both the front and rear. 18 inch by 18 inch flags must be posted on all four corners of load. Pilot cars must have 2-way radio that has contact with at least a ½ mile range. The truck must have a flashing amber light on top of the cab.

The information contained in these pages is research information primarily for use by oversize and overweight trucking company drivers, dispatchers and pilot car companies. While every effort is put into maintaining the accuracy of this information you must absolutely verify this information with the Maine State DOT Permits office before commencing movement.

Routine oversize and heavy-haul trucking permits.

These maximum dimensions/weights are considered routine oversize or heavy-haul trucking permits in NV:

Length: There really isn’t any routine maximum length. It all depends on proposed route and the state. After 105 feet in length it can get complicated.Width: 17 feet. However some routes are restricted, see notes below;Height: 16 feet.Weight: Single axles 20,000 pounds, tandem axles 46,725 pounds, tridem axles 58,000 (to 59,000 see below) pounds. Determined by bridge formula, desired route, tire size and axle spacings especially for singles, tandems, tridums and quadem axles. Gross weights are: 5 axles 92,000 pounds with 70 feet minimum axle spacings, 6 axles 96,000 pounds with 70 feet minimum of axle spacings, 7 axles 101,000 pounds with 70 feet minimum of axles spacings, 8 axles 106,000 pounds with 70 feet minimum of axles spacings.Overhang: No more than 15’ combined total but you want to check with them to make absolute sure as routing can effect this limit.Notes: For weight restrictions Nevada has different routes marked. Choose the map you need for the entire state, western, eastern and southern restricted areas. You can also view a list. For purple, orange and green areas. Also, restrictions for width and weight are in effect on the following routes: route map, route list. Also note to get the extra 1,000 pounds as noted above (59,000 pounds on tridem configurations) you are allowed to use up to 2 tridem configurations only. Any additional tridem axle configurations will max out at 51,000 pounds. If you have tridem configurations on your tractor that will be counted as 1 of the 2. However, the distance between the steer axle and the center tridum axle must be a minimum of 18 feet. It is possible to to exceed this within reason but is reviewed case by case by the NVDOT permitting office.

Nevada superloads.

Requirements for extra-heavy or over-dimensional (superloads) in NV:

Nevada is picky about weights and heights. Rather than attempting to illustrate a list of items that may not apply we suggest if your shipment does not fall within the set maximums listed above it’s more than likely going to be considered a superload by NVDOT. The permitting process for superloads is different than the normal oversize or over-weight trucking permits in Nevada and must be fully drafted by the company or person requesting the permit. For instructions for the format your super-load application must be in see: Nevada-superloads.

NOTE: any special purpose or special needs loads that are outside of the normal permitting parameters will classify as a superload.

Legal travel times for oversize and heavy-haul loads.

Travel times and restrictions:

Remember to refer to your actual permit for travel times and restrictions. For Nevada daylight travel hours are defined as one half hour before sunrise to one half hour after sunset with some restrictions; under 12 feet wide, 110 feet long or 15 feet tall may also travel during night hours and on weekends as long as you are not on I-80 between Sparks, NV and the CA state border or on I-15 between Las Vegas and the CA state border. There are no weekday curfews for any cities and if your load is under 12 feet wide, 100 feet long or 15 feet tall you may travel on holiday. However, if your load is in excess of these dimensions holiday travel restrictions are on the following days: New Years day, Memorial day, Independence day, Labor day, Thanksgiving day and Christmas day. If a large event is predicted to create dense traffic they may restrict that date as well, ie: state fairs, etc.

When pilot cars or escort vehicles are required.

Heavy-haul or oversize loads may be required to be accompanied by a escort vehicle or pilot car if:

QUICK REFERENCE

Length:

over 105 feet in length requires on escort. This applies to both 2 lane and 4 lanes roads.

Width:

2 lane roads:

12 feet requires 1 pilot car or escort.

14 feet requires 1 pilot car and 1 escort.

16 feet requires 3 total pilot cars and escort vehicles.

17 feet will require a review which will probably require 1 pilot car and 1 escort and 1 police escort.

4 lane roads:

14 feet requires 1 pilot car or escort.

16 feet requires 1 pilot car and 1 escort.

17 feet requires 1 pilot car and 1 escort and 1 police escort.

Height:

if over 16 feet and 6 inches in height you will be required to have 1 pilot car equipped with a height pole.

DETAILED REFERENCE

Length: If shipment is over 110 feet in length you are required to have 1 pilot car behind the shipment.Width: If your shipment is over 12′ wide on up to a 3 lane road you are required to have 1 escort vehicle in the front of your shipment. If over 14′ wide on up to a 3 lane road you are required to have 1 escort in the front and 1 pilot car in the rear of the load. If over 14′ wide on a 4 lane road you are required to have 1 rear escort. If over 16′ you are required to have 1 front pilot car and 1 rear escort on 4 lane and all other roads.Height: Loads that are in excess of 15′ 6″ are required to have a front high pole pilot car at all times.Weight: Pilot cars and escorts are usually not required on shipments over weight that are able to maintain the minimum posted speed requirements. If you are not able to maintain minimum speeds you will be required to have a minimum of a rear escort vehicle if travelling in urban and some rural areas.Overhang: If in excess of 25 feet you will be required to have a minimum of 1 pilot car.Notes: Some routes are completely restricot car.ted. If in the Hoover dam vicinity shipments are not permitted for anything over 10 feet in width but if 10 feet will require 1 pilot car and 1 escort.

Pilot car and escort vehicle requirements, certifications.

In order to operate a pilot car or escort vehicle in the state of Nevada you are required to have a minimum of the following:

First of all the state of Nevada requires that all pilot and escort vehicles be certified. If you are officially certified by another state then this is recognized by the state of Nevada as valid certification and you may operate within the state however, in order to have an amber light mounted to ANY vehicle you must first obtain a permit from the state which costs $2.00 per vehicle, per year. You can do that online by clicking here.
A pilot car or an escort vehicle is required to be equipped with a strobing or flashing amber light that is visible from a distance of no less than 500′ in daylight and from all 360 degree angles, mounted to the roof and above signs. The light must be a minimum of 50 candle power and if it is a rotating light must have a lens of no less than 5″ in diameter with a flash count or not less than 50 per minute. Any vehicle used for this purpose must be no less than 60″ in width, with a wheelbase of a minimum of 95″ with no more than 2 axles and a manufacturer’s gross weight of no more than 16,000 pounds.
Each vehicle must be equipped with a two way radio that is in constant contact with/to all parties involved in the shipment, 5 pound (minimum) fire extinguisher, 3 bi-directional 18″ road triangles, 1 stop/slow sign with 5′ pole handle, 1 hard hat, 1 reflective safety vest, a copy of the ANSI/ISEA manual which can be ordered online here for $30. Drivers must be a minimum of 18 years of age, have a valid drivers license, and must be flagger/flagman “capable or carrying out flagging responsibilities” (we strongly suggest a flagger safety class) of controlling traffic, wearing a approved safety yellow-green safety jacket or vest and equipped with a red flag and a stop/slow paddle of no less than 18″. Each vehicle should be equipped with proper signs that specify “oversize”, “oversize load” or “wideload” as well as “long load” with black letters a minimum of 10″ in height with a letter thickness of no less than 1 5/8″ on a yellow background which are removed or covered while not in work transit mode. Pilot car and escort vehicles must have a placard on each side of the vehicle with the companies name and phone number clearly visible from a distance of no less than 50′.
Operators of pilot cars and escort vehicles will maintain a reasonable distance from the shipment which all depends on weather, traffic, road conditions and the speed you are travelling with reasonable distance defined by how much time it takes for the shipment driver to recognize your indications to stop, slow or pass as necessary.

Shipment, truck and trailer markings.

Truck, trailer and shipment required signs, banners and flags:

All trucking companies that are hauling oversize and overweight shipments must have a amber colored strobing or flashing light affixed to the top of the tractor trailer cab that is visible 360 degrees from a minimum distance of 500′. Signs that state the nature of the shipment; “oversize load” or “wideload” signs in the overall front and rear of the shipment. Signs will be no less than 7′ in width and 18″ in height with black lettering no less than 10″ in height with a lettering thickness of no less than 1 5/8″ thick on a yellow background. Signs must be mounted securely and free of any dirt or debris. Warning flags are to be used only in daylight hours and must be florescent orange in color with a minimum size distance of 18″ from one corner to the next corner and be placed at the outer most corners of the shipment as well as on any protrusions. IF the shipment is permitted to travel during night hours must have 2 constant display amber lights placed at the very most front extreme of the shipment, two amber steady burning lights on the outer (side) center of the shipment and two red steady lit lights on the outer most rear of the shipment. THIS INCLUDES OVER-WEIGHT LOADS MOVING AT NIGHT.

Frost laws and restrictions for Nevada state.

Frost and thaw laws for Nevada:

Nevada is fairly elusive on frost and thaw law travel restrictions. They do provide a map but there is not much detail on it as far as the exact roads that must be travelled. You can view the frost law map or view this thaw law material published by the state DOT which does reference it as well. Then they also have some basic shipment route information that references it as well for the state of Nevada.

The information contained in these pages is research information primarily for use by oversize and overweight trucking company drivers, dispatchers and pilot car companies. While every effort is put into maintaining the accuracy of this information you must absolutely verify this information with the Nevada State DOT Permits office before commencing movement.

Legal load limits.British Columbia legal load limits:

Length: 14.65 meters (48.06′) from the kingpin to the rear most portion of the trailer. No combinations in length over 23 meters (75.45′) overall without a permit. A 53 foot semi-trailer is allowed provided the lift axle is raised.Width: No shipment may travel if in excess of 2.6 meters in width (without a permit) unless it is a shipment of hay which is limited to 3.1 meters (122″) or rear view mirrors which are limited to 30 cm (11.81 inches)on each side, additional auxiliary devices are allowed 30 cm (11.81 inches) and tires are allowed an additional 10 cm.Height: No shipment may travel if larger than 4.15 meters (163″) in height without a permit.Weight: Single axle: 9,100 kg (20,062 lbs) and the same for tandem and tridum axles. A tridem pole trailer: gross weight on any two adjacent axles in a tridum axle group must not exceed 17,000 kg (37,478 lbs). The maximum licensed gross vehicle weight of a vehicle or combination of vehicles must not exceed 63,500 kg* (139,994 lbs) without a permit (see; en B.C Regulation 95/2006, s. 3.)* THIS AMOUNT SEEMS EXCESSIVE. THIS IS THE NUMBER OUR RESEARCH PRODUCED. See; reference link below in “notes” under “maximum gross weight”.Notes: Not matter what a permit states if there is a sign posted on a highway or road that contradicts your permit the sign will take precedence over the permit so you must immediately stop traveling and get clarification. Section reference: Copyright Queens Printer Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.Overhang: 1m in front and .061 – which seems a little odd to us as the rear maximum seems short. Please contact the BC DOT to verify.

Routine trucking permits.Oversize and overweight trucking permits that are routinely issued by the British Columbia DOT routinely:

Length: 27.5 meters (90 feet, 2 and 43/64 fourths on an inch) in the maximum length for a routine permit in B. C.Width: 4.4 meters (14 feet, 5 and 15/64 fourths of an inch) is the maximum with you will get from BC DOT on a routine permit.Height: There is no number provided. The British Columbia DOT permit office wants to assess every load that is over height based on intended routing.Weight: This is the same as height. They will not give you a solid number for routine. We are going to suggest 63,500 kg (134,994 lbs) since we had trouble locating what we feel was a reasonable maximum limit above for “legal loads limits”. we sure welcome your comments below.Overhang: 6.5 meters (21 feet, 3 and 29/32 seconds of an inch) for routine permits for overhang.

NOTES: If your shipment is oversize AND overweight you will be required to have two separate permits. Oversize loads are required to have safety flags no less than 16″ x 16″ (46.64 cm) square and be red in color.

Superloads in British Columbia or “extraordinary loads” are defined by the DOT any shipment that is in excess of 85,000 kilograms GVW in weight, 4.4 meters (14 feet, 5 and 15/64ths of an inch) in width, 4.88 meters (16 feet and 1/8th inches) in overall height. Depending on your route you may not be classified as a “Superload” as the British Columbia DOT has pre-approved designated routes. You can find more (limited) information on super or extraordinary loads here.

Permitted travel times & restrictions.British Columbia DOT travel times and restrictions for oversize and overweight trucking:

The rule of daylight is defined as 1/2 hour before sunrise to 1/2 hour after sunset in B. C. No travel is allowed after 2 PM on Friday until 12:01 AM on Monday for any load in excess of 3.8 meters (12′ 6″) in width. If your shipment is over 3.5 meters (11′ 6″) in width you are only allowed to travel during daylight hours only with the exception of the Peace River region. For holiday travel restrictions you may not travel after 2 PM on the day before the holiday and after 12:01 on the day after the holiday. Holidays are New Years day, Provincial day, Good Friday, Victoria day, Canada day, Family day, Labour day, Thanksgiving day, Remembrance day, Christmas day and Boxing day.

When pilot cars are required.British Columbia DOT requires a pilot car (escort vehicle) to accompany your shipment if you are in excess of any of the following dimensions or weights:

Length: For shipments in excess of 27.5 meters (90′) in length you will be required to have 1 rear pilot car (escort vehicle) on all roads. For shipments over 27.5 meters (90′) in length 1 front pilot car/escort and 1 rear pilot car/escort is required.Width: Shipments in excess of 3.5 meters (11′ 6″) wide you will be required to have 1 front pilot car on two lane roads or 1 rear pilot car/escort on multiple lane roads. In some cases a beacon light may be substituted. In many cases night travel is granted at 304.8 cm (10′ wide). If granted night travel you may be required to have 1 pilot car/escort in the front if your shipment is over 3.2 meters (10′ 5 and 63/64 fourths of an inch”) in width. Shipments that are over 3.5 meters (11′ 5 and 51/64 fourths of an inch”) wide up to 4.4 meters (14′ 5 and 15/64 fourths of an inch) require 1 front pilot car/escort vehicle. Shipments that are over 3.5 meters (11′ 5 and 51/64 fourths of an inch”) wide are permitted to travel at night only.Height: Depending on your route the BC DOT permit office will determine if you are required to have a pilot car/escort vehicle.Weight: Weight is on a case by case basis. As long as your shipment can maintain the minimum required speed limit you will probably not be required to have a pilot car/escort by the British Columbia DOT permits office.Overhang: If you are have more than 6.5 meters (21′ 3 and 29/32 seconds of an inch) of overhang you will be required to have 1 rear pilot car/escort.

Pilot car/escort vehicle operators at this time are only required to: 1.) have a valid drivers license and 2.) be over 18 years of age. We are getting reports that a certification program is in the works but at the time of this update (March 2, 2014) these above 3 requirements are all that is needed to operate a “pilot car” or “escort vehicle” within the Province of British Columbia (see comments below for more information). Also see; British Columbia Pilot Cars laws. Your vehicle is required to have a lighted sign box that is a minimum of 180 cm x 35 cm x 10 cm (72″ x 14″ x 4″), have 2 – flashing lights mounted on the top of the sign box on each side with 2 amber strobe or rotating lights a minimum of 203 mm (8″) mounted between the flashing lights on top of the box as well.

The minimum acceptable size for a rotating amber light is 15 cm in diameter and for strobe lights 11 cm in diameter. Either type of lamp must emit light flashes in 360 degrees.

The sign box must light up and be visible from a minimum distance of 200 meters. The sign box must have either a red and white D sign or a yellow with black lettering stating “OVERSIZE LOAD”, “WIDE LOAD”, OR “LONG LOAD”. If you have the “D” sign your letter must be no less than 20 cm (8″) in height with a 4 cm (1 5/8″) line thickness. If you have the yellow sign your lettering must be no less than 20 cm (8″) with a 4 cm (1 5/8″) line thickness. The sign box must be mounted on the top of the vehicle and covered when not in operation. You are also expected to have the following items inside of the vehicle: CB radio or high powered 2-way radio, first aid kit, fire extinguisher type A, B & C of at least a 2 liters, 3 reflective road triangles, 3 traffic cones, reflective vest (worn while working), slow/stop sign, 3 red or orange safety colored flags no less than 40 x 40 cm (16″ x 16″), nose cone flashlight and a hard hat.

All trucks that are hauling oversize or overweight loads must have a strobe, flashing or rotating amber light mounted to the roof that is visible from 360 degrees at a minimum distance of 200 meters (656′). All 4 outermost corners of the overall shipment and any obtrusive points must have flags mounted to them that are safety red or orange in color no less than 40 cm x 40 cm (16″ x 16″) and have the flags exchanged for lighting if moving during the night. A sign stating the nature of the load; “OVERSIZE LOAD”, “WIDE LOAD” or “LONG LOAD” must be mounted to the front and rear of the overall shipment. Signs must be a minimum of 12′ in height and 6′ in width with a yellow background and black letting with lettering thickness no less than 4 cm (1 5/8″) thick.

British Columbia DOT & other information.British Columbia DOT contact and other useful information:

British Columbia DOT – Central Permit OfficeTelephone help line: 800-559-9688 or the have districts so click on area for phone and info.Hours: 5 AM until 10 PM including all holidays – PACIFIC TIME ZONE.

The information contained in these pages is research information primarily for use by oversize and overweight trucking company drivers, dispatchers and pilot car companies. While every effort is put into maintaining the accuracy of this information you must absolutely verify this information with the British Columbia Province DOT Permits office before commencing movement.

Super load information for Alabama.

Alabama state DOT will classify any shipment in excess of the following as a super load:

Defined as shipments in excess of any of the following dimensions/weights; over 250,000 pounds (113398.0 kilograms) of gross weight, over 16 feet (4.87 meters) in width, over 16 feet in height, over 150 feet (45.72 meters) long. Anything of this nature will require special ALDOT approval. Detailed drawings will be required and need to include shop drawings of the item being shipped, the truck and trailer axle weights and spacings for both truck tractor and trailer. A letter from the manufacturer is required certifying the shipment is reduced to the lowest possible size and weight configuration as well as an explanation of why it can not be shipped by other means such as by barge or port. Loads exceeding 150,000 pounds (68038.8 kilograms)are subject to a full scale structural bridge analysis if bridges are in the route. A special weight authorization (SWA) is required from the permit office to initiate the necessary bridge rating section investigation as well. Night travel (9PM – 6AM) may be required with a state trooper or police escort (minimum of 2 when travelling). A route survey will probably be required. The Alabama State Troopers Association handles all of the scheduling of police/trooper escorts after your super load permit has been issued. A lighting system configured from strobe warning lights must be placed on each extremity of the shipment in addition to basic requirements such as flags and oversize load signs. All rail road crossings must be identified and railroad must be notified in advance of your intent to cross as well as date and time. ALDOT will more than likely verify this with the railroad and not issue a super load permit until verified. It is the carriers responsibility to notify the railroad of each intended crossing. At each rail crossing you will find a small plaque with a phone number and a “crossing number” that identifies each crossing for submitting cross requests. A bucket truck is required to accompany loads that exceed 16 feet and 5 inches (5.0 meters) in height and it is the carriers responsibility to show proof of “utility notification” for shipments in excess of 16 feet and 6 inches (5.02 meters) in height. City or county approval is required for Alabama super loads as well, please see the Alabama list of county engineers for contact details. For information published by the state you can read more Alabama super load information.

A sign will need to be mounted on the front and rear of any over width or over length truck and trailer or combinations. Banners/signs need to be a minimum of 7 feet (2.13 meters) in width, 18 inches (45.7 centimeters) in height and be marked with black letters of no less than 10 inches (25.4 centimeters) in height, with a minimum of a 1-5/8 inch (4.12 centimeters) line thickness on a yellow or orange background. The actual words required are exactly as follows: “OVERSIZE LOAD”. Red flags must be a minimum of 18 inches (45.7 centimeters) square and be placed at all 4 outer most corners of all over-dimensional shipments.

When pilot cars or escort vehicles are required.

Heavy-haul or oversize loads may be required to be accompanies by a escort vehicle or pilot car if:

1 front pilot car (escort vehicle) is required for all loads over 15 feet and 6 inches (4.72 meters) in height with a height pole will be required adjusted 4-6 inches (10.16 – 12.7 centimeters) higher than the actual shipment. On some routes a high pole pilot (escort) may be required for even less heights. Two front and one rear pilot car (escort vehicle) is required for any shipment in excess of 12 feet (3.65 meters) wide. Rear pilot cars (escort vehicles) for mobile home shipments may be replaced with two 5 inch (12.7 centimeters) flashing, stobing or rotating amber lights. 1 rear pilot car (escort) is required for shipments over 85 feet (25.90 meters) in length. 1 front and 1 rear pilot car (escort vehicle) is required for shipments over 105 feet (32.0 meters) in length. 1 rear pilot car (escort) is required if overhang exceeds 10 feet (3.04 meters) from the front of the trailer or 5 feet (1.52 meters) off of the rear of the trailer. There are special escort requirements for bulldozers, scrapers, loaders and other construction equipment being transported with a blade or bucket intact. However on some routes that are 2 lane roads may require 1 front pilot car and on some 4 lane roads 1 rear escort.

Pilot cars/escort vehicle certifications and requirements.

A pilot car vehicle must be classified as an actual passenger vehicle to qualify, ie; car, truck, van, etc. A pilot car vehicle must be equipped with a strobing, flashing or rotating amber light. The pilot car must be able to communicate with and be in constant contact with all parties working in relation to the shipment by CB or 2-way radio. Also see federal requirements for pilot cars and escort vehicles. Signs mounted on pilot car vehicles must moderately fit the vehicle and not be obtrusive in any manner.

Legal travel times for oversize and heavy haul loads.

Travel times and restrictions for heavy-haul and oversize loads:

One half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset. Travel is allowed all day Saturday with NO SUNDAY TRAVEL PERMITTED. Shipments 120 feet (36.57 meters) to 150 feet (45.72 meters) in length are restricted from moving from 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM Mondays through Fridays. Travel is NO permitted on the following holidays: New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. The Alabama DOT state permit office is closed on these holidays as well as on Martin Luther King Day, Washington’s Birthday, Columbus Day, Confederate Memorial Day, Jefferson Davis’ Birthday and on Veteran’s Day. More information on DOT permit office closure is available here. Travel is NOT restricted on these days.

If your heavy haul or oversize load exceeds any of these dimensions or 180,000 pounds please refer to the super load section. Any permitted load with a weight is subject to a detailed bridge analysis.

Super loads.

Heavy haul loads greater than 150,000 pounds or 16 feet wide or 16 feet tall or 150 feet long will require special approval. Drawings are required and should include axle weights and spacings. Heavy haul loads exceeding 150,000 pounds are subject to structural analysis. If any bridges are to be crossed moving a heavy haul shipment (with exceptions) you may be able to move at night with police escorts when hauling a super load.

Pilot car and escort requirements.

Front pilot cars or escorts are required for loads that are over 15’6″ tall and must have a high pole. Two front escorts and one rear pilot car is required when loads are in excess of 12 feet wide. Escorts and or pilot cars may be required for lower heights depending upon routing. A rear escort or pilot car is required on mobile homes and maybe replaced with 25 inch flashing amber lights in some circumstances. One rear escort is required if over 85 feet in length. Front and rear pilot cars or escorts are required on all loads that are in excess of 105 feet long. Rear escorts or pilot cars are required if overhang is in excess of 5 feet from the rear or 10 feet to the front. There are some special escort or pilot car requirements for bulldozers that travel in two lanes one front escort may be required and in four lanes one rear escort or pilot car may be required.

Pilot car and escort vehicle requirements.

Escort vehicles and pilot car shall be a passenger vehicle or pickup truck as well as a full-size van or station wagon. All escort vehicles and pilot cars must be equipped with a flashing or revolving amber light. All escort vehicles and pilot cars must be able to maintain constant contact with each other as well as the permitted truck via two-way radio. Pilot cars and escort vehicles must have signs mounted on them and must be modified if necessary to fit correctly.

Inclement weather may restrict travel times in Alabama such as conditions with poor visibility.

Travel times for heavy haul and oversize loads as well as weekend travel.

Travel is permitted one half hour before sunrise all the way until one half hour after sunset. Travel is allowed all day on Saturdays however no Sunday travel is permitted. Travel is prohibited on the following holidays; New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving day and Christmas day. The Alabama state permit office will be closed on these holidays as well as Martin Luther King Day, Washington’s Birthday, Columbus Day, Confederate Memorial day, Jefferson Davis day, Lincoln’s birthday and Veterans Day. Travel may not be restricted on these particular days but you must refer to your permit for any particular instructions.

The information contained in these pages is research information primarily for use by oversize and overweight trucking company drivers, dispatchers and pilot car companies. While every effort is put into maintaining the accuracy of this information you must absolutely verify this information with the Alabama State DOT Permits office before commencing movement.

Routine over-weight, oversize, shipping, trucking and transport permits:Length: Since Yukon Territory has no said length restrictions you overall length approval will depend on your proposed route.Width: 16′ on four lanes roads and highways and 15′ on two lane roads and highways.Height: 15′ is about the most you can get away with on routine permits and main routes. Anything taller than that off of the main roads should prepare to have a route survey performed.Weight: Yukon Territory allows for 29,700 lbs on a single axle, 50, 600 lbs on a tandem axle and 63,800 lbs on a tridem axle.Overhang: Route specific as determined in overall length above.

Notes: Anything over the above is more than likely is a superload. Here is the latest superload information. Lights, flags and signs: Lights are required in positions of flags at night. Flags are to be positioned on all 4 corners of outer most extreme corners. Signs should read “WIDELOAD” for wide loads and “LONG LOAD” for long loads. Loads that are both wide and long you should have OVERSIZE LOAD” banners but a “WIDELOAD” banner may be used.

FROST & THAW LAW RESTRICTIONS: Yukon Territory does have spring weight restrictions and the roads and highways are dependent on conditions. Overall weight reductions may be imposed up to 50% reductions have been noted. Check with Yukon Territory permit office for clarification.

Travel times and restrictions:Travel is permitted 24/7 with the following imposed maximums in Yukon Territory; 10′ 6″ in width, 14′ 6″ in height, 82′ in length. If load exceeds these dimension daylight only travel is permitted. No travel on Sunday is permitted, and no travel during the summer months (last Friday in June until the second Monday and September) after 2 pm. On Fridays and Saturdays you may resume travel at 4 am the following morning. Holiday restrictions vary so refer you your permit or or contact the Yukon Territory permit office for clarification.

Pilot Car and Escort vehicle information:Length: If load is over 85′ 5″ long you need one rear pilot car (escort), over 101′ 9″ long requires 1 front and 1 rear pilot car (escort).Width: If over 10′ 5″ wide 1 rear pilot car (escort) vehicle is required (beacon light may be substituted if not on highway 97). Over 11′ 5″ requires one rear pilot car (escort), over 12′ 6” requires 1 front and 1 rear pilot car (escort).Height: If t all depends on your route. Height in case by case basis for pilot cars (escort).Weight: Check with Yukon Territory DOT to see if your weight class will require a pilot car/escort.Overhang: If over 21′ 4″ past the last axle in overhang you are required to have one rear pilot car (escort vehicle).

Pilot car and escort vehicle requirements:All pilot cars/escort vehicles must display a bumper or roof mounted “OVERSIZE LOAD” sign visible from both the front and rear of the vehicle. Sign must be at least 5′ long and 12″ in height, yellow in color with black letters no less than 10″ tall and 1 1/2″ in width. Vehicle must have 2 safety flags red or orange in color and be a minimum of 18″ of length and/or height mounted at a 40 to 70 degree angle on all 4 corners of the vehicle. Company identification signs must be placed on both sides of the pilot car (escort vehicle) displaying the name of the company, phone number and be placed on both the left and right hand sides of the vehicle. These signs must be no less that 8″ tall x 12″ wide and identity writing must be plainly legible. Vehicle must be equipped with a horizontally mounted rotating (or strobe) amber colored flashing light which must be visible from a 360 degree angle from a minimum of 500 feet. Vehicles must be equipped with a CB radio or 2-way communication device, 2 – 5 pound fire extinguishers type A, B and C, a sign with the word “STOP” on one side and “SLOW” on the other with dimensions of no less than 18″ in diameter with a minimum of 6″ letters. A red safety colored flag with handle no less than 18″ square, 3 reflective emergency road triangles or 18″ traffic cones, 2 “OVERSIZE LOAD” banners (yellow with black lettering) and a safety colored (red, orange, yellow or lime green) vest, jacket or shirt (used while directing traffic).

The information contained in these pages is research information primarily for use by oversize and overweight trucking company drivers, dispatchers and pilot car companies. While every effort is put into maintaining the accuracy of this information you must absolutely verify this information with the Yukon Territory DOT Permits office before commencing movement.

Trucking & pilot car directory.

Legal limits.

Legal load limits:

Length: The overall maximum length without a permit is 23 meters.Width: The maximum width allowed without a permit is 2.6 meters.Height: 4.15 meters is the maximum height allowed by Manitoba DOT without a permit.Weight: 9,100 kg on steer (seems high to us so NOT a confirmed number – use reference link below), tandem axles: 17,000 kgs, tridem: 17,000 kgs, or 3 axel combination with proper spacing of a 23,700, quadem: 31,600 kgs, 5 axle: 39,500 kgs and 6 axles: 46,500 kgs. Let me refer you to our reference on this for clarification from Manitoba DOT as there are different weight classes.Overhang: Our researchers are unable to find any information on maximum allowed legal overhang. We did find the pilot car requirements of 25 meters. We will call and update at a later time or you can call Debra Martin at: 204-326-8292 M-F 8-4 – if you do please comment below as this author is writing on a Sat. and they are closed. Thank you!

Routine oversize and heavy haul trucking permits.

Oversize and overweight trucking permits that are issued routinely by Manitoba province:

Length: 30 meters on length is about all you are going to get.Width: 5 meters wide for routine permits depending on routing.Height: Depending on routing as Manitoba DOT has designated routes the maximum height is 4.8 meters.Weight: We were unable to get a solid figure. Manitoba DOT has different zones for weight restrictions so it all depends on which zone you need to travel in. See Manitoba DOT zone map.Overhang: Based on the comment they made on 25 meters of rear overhang we are going to say that up to this amount is routine. If you need to speak to them call the number located above in “legal load limits” in the “overhang” section.

Superload information.

Manitoba DOT information on suplerloads or extra ordinary loads:

We will do more research on superloads in Manitoba in the future. The Manitoba DOT documentation does not cover or mention much about them so we will need to speak with someone on the phone. We are able to see that they are well versed in shipping superloads as they mention in their online documentation that there will make arrangements to remove road side signs and replace them for shipments that are in excess of the road width. We will get back to this section soon but in the meantime appreciate any comments you may be able to leave for other visitors below.

Permitted travel times for oversize and heavy-haul loads – restrictions.

Manitoba DOT permitted travel times and restrictions:

Daylight travel times are defined as from sunrise to sunset in Manitoba. No travel is permitted after 3 PM on Fridays during the summer months for shipments in excess of 3.4 meters (11′ 2″) wide on seasonal restricted roads. In the spring shipments in excess of 4.6 meters (15′) in width are not allowed to travel on roads during the spring restriction times. On routes that are not seasonally restricted you may proceed (multiple lane roads) until 3 PM as long as you are no wider than 3.7 meters in width (12′ 2″) on Friday and resume travel on Saturday at sunrise however if you are in excess of 25 meters in length (82′) you are not permitted to travel after 3 PM on Fridays during the summer months if you are on a seasonally restricted highway and resume on Saturday at sunrise – you are allowed however to travel on holidays. Sunday travel is permitted for loads up to 3.85 meters (12′ 7″) in width on all roads that have no seasonal restrictions. On a single lane highway on holidays you can not exceed 3.4 meters (11′ 2″) in order to travel. On multiple lane roads you can travel only if you are less than 3.7 meters (12′ 2″). This is very confusing so always refer to your permit for final verification but to help the matter lets go over the restricted routes:

Highway 1 from Falcon lake to the Manitoba/Ontario border.

Highway 6, 8, 9, 15, 16, 44, 307, 313, 317.

Highway 10 from the US border to Riding Mountain National Park.

Highway 11 but only north of highway 44.

Highway 12 but only north of highway 15.

Highway 59 from the west boundary line of Brokenhead to Grand Beach and the South perimeter of St. Malo

Here is the Manitoba link for spring road restrictions with zones to help you with interpretation. Holidays observed are: New years day, Provincial day, Good Friday, Victoria day, Canada day, Family day, Labour day, Thanksgiving day, Remembrance day, Christmas day and on Boxing day.

When pilot cars are required.

Manitoba DOT requires you to have a pilot car if your shipment is in excess of any of the following regulated limits:

Length: Shipments that are in excess of30 meters (98′ 5″) long require 1 pilot car/escort vehicle on the rear of the shipment on all roads. For shipments that include a booster of a jeep that are over 31 meters (101′ 9″) you are required to have 1 rear pilot car vehicle on all roads.Width: If your shipment is in excess of 4.6 meters (15′) wide then you are required to have 1 front pilot car on single lane roads and 1 rear pilot car/escort on multiple lane roads. If your load is in excess of 3.66 meters (12′) but less than 4.55 meters ( 14′ 7″) then you are permitted to travel at night as long as you have 1 front and 1 read pilot car/escort vehicle on all roads and highways. Mobile homes can travel at night on multiple lane roads as long as it does not exceed 5 meters wide (16′ 4″) but are required to have 1 pilot car on the rear.Height: If you are approved for a shipment that is over the legal limits Manitoba DOT has designated routes and you are not required to have a pilot car.Weight: As long as your shipment is able to maintain the minimum speed requirements you will more than likely not be required to have a pilot car as long as your shipment is overweight only.Overhang: Overhang is approved on a case by case basis. Check with the Manitoba DOT for further information to see if your shipment will require a pilot car due to excessive overhang.

Pilot car certifications.

Pilot car/escort vehicle operators are required to take a Manitoba DOT certification course in order to operate in this province. The certification program is recognized by all US jurisdictions that require PEVO except for New York state. Your vehicle is required to have a lighted sign box that is a minimum of 180 cm x 35 cm x 10 cm (72″ x 14″ x 4″), 2 – 175 mm (7″) diameter flashing lights mounted on the top of the sign box on each side with 2 amber strobing or rotating lights a minimum of 203 mm (8″) mounted between the flashing lights on top of the box as well. The sign box must light up and be visible from a minimum distance of 200 meters (656′). The sign box must have either a red and white D sign or a yellow with black lettering stating “OVERSIZE LOAD”, “WIDE LOAD”, OR “LONG LOAD”. If you have the “D” sign your letter must be no less than 20 cm (8″) in height with a 4 cm (1 5/8″) line thickness. If you have the yellow sign your lettering must be no less than 20 cm (8″) with a 4 cm (1 5/8″) line thickness. The sign box must be mounted on the top of the vehicle and covered when not in operation. You are also expected to have the following items inside of the vehicle: CB radio or high powered 2-way radio, first aid kit, fire extinguisher type A, B & C of at least a 2 liters, 3 reflective road triangles, 3 traffic cones, reflective vest (worn while working), slow/stop sign, 3 red or orange safety colored flags no less than 40 x 40 cm (16″ x 16″), nose cone flashlight and a hard hat.

To operate in Manitoba you must obtain a light permit. More information is available by calling: 204-985-0920

Shipment, truck and trailer markings.

All trucks that are hauling oversize or overweight loads must have a strobing, flashing or rotating amber light mounted to the roof that is visible from 360 degrees at a minimum distance of 200 meters (656′). All 4 outermost corners corners of the overall shipment and any obtrusive points must have flags mounted to them that are safety red or orange in color no less than 40 cm x 40 cm (16″ x 16″) and have the flags exchanged for lighting if moving during the night. A sign stating the nature of the load; “OVERSIZE LOAD”, “WIDE LOAD” or “LONG LOAD” must be mounted to the front and rear of the overall shipment. Signs must be a minimum of 12′ in height and 6′ in width with a yellow background and black letting with lettering thickness no less than 4 cm (1 5/8″) thick.

The information contained in these pages is research information primarily for use by oversize and overweight trucking company drivers, dispatchers and pilot car companies. While every effort is put into maintaining the accuracy of this information you must absolutely verify this information with the Manitoba Province DOT Permits office before commencing movement.

Trucking & pilot car directory.

Legal load limits.

Length: The overall maximum length allowed in Alberta without a permit is 23 meters (75′ 3″).Width: The maximum width allowed is 2.6 meters (8′ 6″‘).Height: The maximum height allowed in Alberta is 4.15 meters 13′ 7″.Weight: 6,000 kg maximum on steer axle. Tandem axles: 17,000 kg. Tridum axels is 17,000 kilograms (37,478.6 lbs) as well. All axle weights are subject to the size of the tire.Overhang: We have no information on allowable overhang in Alberta. Please share your knowledge with others below.Notes:

* Super single tires require “New Generation, Wide Base” tires with a minimum tire width of 445 mm. Available by permit only. Super single tires do not apply to the steering axle.
** These weights for tridem axles apply to provincial highways only. The maximum weight for a tridem axle on a municipal road is 17,000 kg. Permits may be available to achieve heavier weights.
*** All axle weights are subject to minimum tire size. The maximum weight per tire shall not exceed the lesser of the tire manufacturer’s weight rating or the width of the tire stamped on the sidewall multiplied by 10 kg/mm.
Source: Alberta Transportation

Routine trucking permits.

Oversize and overweight trucking permits that are routinely issued by the Alberta DOT:

Length: 52 meters (170′ 8″) is about the maximum length you can get by with on a routine permit.Width: 14′ 7″ wide depending on routing for routine trucking permits.Height: 5.3 meters (17′ 5″) in height is the cut off point for routine permits of course contingent on routing.Weight: Weight is where you run into a problem. Alberta wants to know every single detail down to the size of tire you are running. Routing being a huge issue we can’t state a “routine” weight as it all depends on your axle spacings, combinations and tire sizes. Just for a safe number we’re going to say a routine permit caps out at 43,359.2 kilograms (100,000 lbs).Overhang: 6.09 meters is about the most you can get on routine depending on routing.

Superload information.

Alberta superload information:

The maximum width normally allowed is 7.32 meters (24′) so anything over this width is a superload. We are researching information pertaining to shipping superloads in the province of Alberta Canada. If you happen to have expertise or knowledge of trucking superloads in this province please share your information for our other viewers below. Thank you.

Permitted travel times & restrictions.

Alberta DOT travel times and restrictions for oversize and overweight trucking:

The rule of 1/2 hour before sunrise until one full hour after sunset is observed in Alberta. Travel is allowed on Fridays until 3pm in the afternoon for loads that exceed 3.85 meters in width (12′ 7″) (WE WILL NEED TO DOUBLE CHECK THIS AS IT WAS LEFT AS A CORRECTION COMMENT BELOW). Travel is otherwise allowed and unrestricted on Saturdays unless stated on your permit. Night travel is permitted for loads that are over length as long as you have 1 rear pilot car/escort vehicle and are on multiple lane roads. If your shipment is no longer than of 42 meters (137′ 10″) on a single lane road you will be required to have1 front pilot car/escort vehicle and 1 rear pilot car/escort vehicle. Weekend travel is permitted for loads that are over length only. If your shipment is in excess of 4.45 meters (14′ 7″) in width you will be permitted to travel only during daylight hours. If over 3.85 meters (12′ 7″) in width you may not travel on Sundays. There is not travel permitted on the following holidays: New Years day, Provincial day, Good Friday, Victoria day, Canada day, Family day, Labour day, Thanksgiving day, Remembrance day, Christmas day and on Boxing day.

Adverse weather conditions: If adverse weather conditions are reported you may not proceed with your shipment and are required to remain where ever you are. If adverse weather conditions interrupt your shipment you are required to pull over at the nearest suitable location even if it is on the side of the road unless you are over width. Over width loads must continue until they are able to completely turn off of the road and remain until adverse weather conditions stop. If your shipment is over 4.45 meters (14′ 7″) in width or 5.32 meters (17′ 5″) in height you are not permitted to travel with snow or fog visibility less than 150 meters (492′), if the road is covered with snow or ice or sleet or any other conditions that may effect the driver from proceeding with the absolute safety in mind first and foremost.

Frost laws: Alberta does have frost laws but when they are in effect changes every year based on testing with a heat flow model that measures to 30 cm below the surface. So, if you are shipping during the spring months you will need to call the number below for the exact frost law restriction dates. There are exemptions which include milk and bread trucks, farm machinery, water, fuel, fertilizer, mail and buses.

When pilot cars are required.

If your shipment is in excess of any of the following you will be required to have a pilot car escort you:

Length: If your shipment is in excess of 34 meters (111′) in overall length you are required to have 1 rear pilot car on single lane roads. For shipments in excess of 38 meters (124′ 8″) you are required to have 1 front pilot car/escort and 1 rear pilot car/escort.Width: If your shipment is in excess of 3.85 meters (12′ 7″) wide you are required to have 1 front pilot car/escort on a single lane road or one rear pilot car/escort on multiple lane roads. For shipments over 4.45 meters (14′ 7″) wide require 1 front pilot car/escort and 1 rear pilot car/escort on single lane roads. If your shipment is in excess of 5.5 meters (18′) you are required to have 1 front and 1 rear pilot car/escort vehicle on all roads.Height: Alberta does not normally use pilot cars with high poles as they have designated routes for shipments that are over height. You can view the routes on the Alberta DOT high load corridor page located here.
Weight: As long as your shipment can maintain the minimum required speed limit you will probably not be required to have a pilot car/escort by the Alberta DOT.Overhang: If you have overhang that is over 6.5 meters (21′ 4″) you will be required to have 1 rear pilot car/escort vehicle. If your shipment overhang is in excess of 9 meters (29′ 6″) you will be required to have 1 front and 1 rear pilot car/escort vehicle.

Pilot car requirements.

Pilot car (escort vehicle) requirements for operating in Alberta province are as follows:

Pilot car/escort vehicle operators are NOT required to take any sort of DOT certification course in order to operate in Canada. Your vehicle is required however to have a lighted sign box that is a minimum of 180 cm x 35 cm x 10 cm (72″ x 14″ x 4″), 2 – 175 mm (7″) diameter flashing lights mounted on the top of the sign box on each side with 2 amber strobing or rotating lights a minimum of 203 mm (8″) mounted between the flashing lights on top of the box as well. The sign box must light up and be visible from a minimum distance of 200 meters (656′). The sign box must have either a red and white D sign or a yellow with black lettering stating “OVERSIZE LOAD”, “WIDE LOAD”, OR “LONG LOAD”. If you have the “D” sign your letter must be no less than 20 cm (8″) in height with a 4 cm (1 5/8″) line thickness. If you have the yellow sign your lettering must be no less than 20 cm (8″) with a 4 cm (1 5/8″) line thickness. The sign box must be mounted on the top of the vehicle and covered when not in operation. You are also expected to have the following items inside of the vehicle: CB radio or high powered 2-way radio, first aid kit, fire extinguisher type A, B & C of at least a 2 liters, 3 reflective road triangles, 3 traffic cones, reflective vest (worn while working), slow/stop sign, 3 red or orange safety colored flags no less than 40 x 40 cm (16″ x 16″), nose cone flashlight and a hard hat.

Shipment, truck & trailer markings.

Truck, trailer and shipment required signs, banners and flags:

All trucks that are hauling oversize or overweight loads must have a strobing, flashing or rotating amber light mounted to the roof that is visible from 360 degrees at a minimum distance of 200 meters (656′). All 4 outermost corners corners of the overall shipment and any obtrusive points must have flags mounted to them that are safety red or orange in color no less than 40 cm x 40 cm (16″ x 16″) and have the flags exchanged for lighting if moving during the night. A sign stating the nature of the load; “OVERSIZE LOAD”, “WIDE LOAD” or “LONG LOAD” must be mounted to the front and rear of the overall shipment. Signs must be a minimum of 12′ in height and 6′ in width with a yellow background and black letting with lettering thickness no less than 4 cm (1 5/8″) thick.

The information contained in these pages is research information primarily for use by oversize and overweight trucking company drivers, dispatchers and pilot car companies. While every effort is put into maintaining the accuracy of this information you must absolutely verify this information with the Alberta Province DOT Permits office before commencing movement.

Legal load limits.Legal load sizes and weights:

Length: 60′ is the overall maximum length allowed without a permit.Width: 8′ 6″ in the maximum legal width allowed to travel on state roads.Height: 13′ 6″ is the maximum legal height allowed to travel without a permit.Weight: 80,000 lbs maximum GVW is the maximum weight permitted to travel without a permit.Overhang: 3′ in the front and 6′ in the rear is the maximum permitted overhang for legal travel.

Routine trucking permits.Trucking permits for overweight and oversize loads that are handled on a daily basis:

Length: 125′ in length pretty much is the maximum for routing permits. 100′ in length is the maximum on mobile homes. Overhang see; escort requirements below but the maximum is about 15′ in length.Width: 16′ in width is the maximum allowed on a routine permit. Over this width depending on routing and you may become a superload.Height: 16′ in height is about the maximum. Anything over 16′ in height and you start to run into trouble. Any shipment that is over 16′ in height will be required to have a route survey done prior to getting a permit issued. Also your routing requires that the overall height of your shipment is a minimum of 6″ less that any obstructions on the route in order to get that route approved routinely.Weight: Single axle maximum weight: 20,000 lbs, tandem axle maximum weight is 40,000 lbs, tridum axle maximum weight is 50,000 lbs, quadem axle maximum weight is 70,000 lbs, 5 axle maximum weight is 90,000 lbs, 6 axle maximum weight is 110,000 lbs, 7 axle maximum weight is 130,000 lbs. Anything over 130,000 lbs in weight is a superload and will need to have a bridge analysis done. See superload section below.Overhang: 3′ in the front and 15′ of rear overhang is about all you are going to get. You can call for more information but expect trouble.Notes: South Carolina DOT is pretty tough on shipments that exceed any of these weight/dimensions. So if you are a boat shipper you’d better figure out a way to cut that fly-bridge off, sorry and don’t shoot the messenger.

Superload information.We have the following information available on superloads:

As far as length goes you can get some play as long as your routing keeps you away from historic areas. Width is the same thing with traffic density and population considered. Height is big trouble with the South Carolina DOT. You will be required to have a pilot car with you at all times if you are over 16′ in height for sure. Count on a full route survey for shipments over the 16′ in height and remember that they are NOT going to want to let you travel ANY route where the clearance is less than the required 6″ overage in height. So if you are 18′ in height then the obstruction on the proposed route needs to be a minimum of 18′ 6″ in height or you are going to have delays in getting your permit. Weight is a serious issue if you want to cross over ANY bridges so if your shipment is over 130,000 lbs in overall gross weight get ready for bridge studies and time delays. Our suggestion: examine routing alternatives. Overhang is a rare issue but when it comes up and you are wanting to overhang in excess of 15′ you are going to have trouble. This is the case anytime you want to exceed the basic rule which is more than 1/3 of the overall shipment length; you just don’t do it as it’s too dangerous and the South Carolina DOT knows it.

Permitted travel times and restrictions.Permitted travel times and restrictions:

The 1 half hour after sunrise and 1 half hour before sunset rule applies. Travel is permitted Monday through Saturday with no travel permitted on Sundays. It is possible to get Sunday travel approved but the basic rule is “no travel on Sundays“. If you are allowed to travel on a Sunday it will be clearly stated on your travel permit. You may not travel on the following holidays: New Years day, Independence day, Labor day, Memorial day, Thanksgiving day and Christmas day. You may not travel past 12 noon on the day previous of the holiday day and until after 12 noon on the day after the holiday. In high traffic density areas you are not allowed to travel from 7 AM -9 Am and 3 PM – 6PM if you are in excess of 14′ in width. If you are 16′ in width or over, on Saturdays you are only permitted to travel between the hours of 9 AM and 3 PM with no travel before or after permitted in any locations.

Length: Length is tricky in South Carolina, call the DOT to make sure. Leave your comments below for others please.Width: From 12′ to 14′ in width will require 1 front pilot car (escort vehicle) on 2 lane roads. 14′ to 16′ in width will require 1 front and 1 rear pilot car (escort vehicle) on all roads in the state. If your shipment is over 16′ in width you will be required to have 3 pilot cars (escort vehicles) 1 front, 1 rear and 1 police escort in the rear.Height: It all depends on your routing. You could be required to have a pilot car (escort vehicle) with a height pole the entire trip if you are 13′ 7″ (seriously). Please share your expertise with others below.Weight: If you are approved for weight and able to maintain the minimum speed requirements the South Carolina DOT permit office will probably not require you to have a pilot car (escort vehicle).Overhang: If your pulling a 48′ or a 53′ (just to clarify) long trailer and you have less than 15′ of overhang you can probably get away with flagging or amber lighting your shipment instead of a rear pilot car (escort vehicle). Anything over the 15′ mark and forget it you will be required to have a pilot car (escort vehicle).

The South Carolina DOT is pretty relaxed on pilot cars. You are required to have the proper banner/sign stating “OVERSIZE LOAD” or “WIDELOAD” displayed either prominently on the top of the vehicle or on the front of lead vehicles or rear of chase vehicles. You must have a flashing or strobing amber light on the top of the vehicle that is visible from 360 degrees from a distance of no less than 500′. You are required to have a CB radio or 2 way communication device and be in communication with all drivers working on your shipment. You are required to have your headlights turned on while working.

Note: It is only our professional opinion that pilot cars also have a minimum of the additional items but not required: 2 – 5 pound fire extinguishers type A, B and C, a paddle sign with the word “STOP” on one side and “SLOW” on the other with dimensions of no less than 18″ in diameter with a minimum of 6″ letters. A red safety colored flag with a handle no less than 18″ square, 3 reflective emergency road triangles or 18″ traffic cones, 8 burning road flares, 2 OVERSIZE LOAD banners (yellow with black lettering) and a safety colored (red, orange, yellow or lime green) vest, jacket or shirt (used while directing traffic).

Amber lights: you are required to have 1 rotating or strobing rear amber light on any vehicle that is shipping a load in excess of 12′ in width. Flags in safety colored orange or red with a minimum length in any direction of 12″ must be mounted on the 4 outer most corners of the entire overall shipment. Banner signs stating “OVERSIZE LOAD” OR “WIDELOAD” must be placed on the rear and front of the overall shipment. Banner signs must have a letter height of no less than 12′ and have a letter thickness of no less than 1 1/2″. Banner signs must have a yellow background with black lettering.

Telephone help line: 803-737-6769Fax number: 803-737-2199Hours of operation: 8 AM until 4:30 PM Monday thru Friday – EASTERN TIME ZONE.
South Carolina DOT oversize/overweight information website.
South Carolina DOT road closures and conditions reports.
South Carolina guidelines for movement of oversize and overweight loads.
South Carolina do it yourself single trip permit application – warning you can loose your money if you are not trained.

The information contained in these pages is research information primarily for use by oversize and overweight trucking company drivers, dispatchers and pilot car companies. While every effort is put into maintaining the accuracy of this information you must absolutely verify this information with the South Carolina State DOT Permits office before commencing movement.

Tucking company & pilot car directory.Locate trucking companies and pilot car companies in the state of Pennsylvania:

Length: The maximum typical length overall is 70′ long in divided roads and 60′ on undivided roads and highways.Width: You can figure up to 8′ 6″ on the major routes however some routes are restricted to only 8′. Be sure to check with the PA DOT is you aren’t going to always be on a major route.Height: 13′ 6″ is the maximum legal allowed height of any shipment.Weight: 80,000 lbs. GVW.Overhang: 4′ in the front and 6′ off of the rear of the trailer.

Routine trucking permits.Oversize and overweight trucking permits that are routinely issued by the PA DOT:

Length: 120′ is about it unless you are only traveling on a 4 lane highway which is about 160′ in length depending on the route you wish to take. Anything over 160′ in length is considered a superload.Width: You can figure on about 15′ wide for a routine permit. If traveling on only the major routes you can get 16′ in width routinely. Anything over 16′ wide however is considered a superload.Height: 14′ 6″ is about the maximum for height. Anything that is over 16′ in height is considered a superload.Weight: Single axle: 27,000 lbs., tandem axles: 52,000 lbs., tridum exles: 72,000 lbs. Gross weights are: 5 axles 116,000 to 120,000 lbs., 6 axles: 127,000 to 147,000 lbs., 7 axles: 136,000 to 174,000 lbs., 8 axles: 136,000 to 201,000 lbs. Once you get over 201,000 lbs in weight you are considered a superload.Overhang: Case by case depending on routing and how much you are overall with/without overhang.

Superload information.Pennsylvania superload information:

We don’t have a lot of info on PA superloads so if you have any to share please do so for our other visitors using the simple form on the bottom.

Length: Anything over 160′ in length is considered a superload by the PA DOT.Width: Any shipment in excess of 16′ in width is considered a superload by the PA DOT.Height: The height in PA is pretty open as they know their clearance capabilities. So, depending on your route will determine your status.Weight: As stated previously any shipment that is in excess of 201,000 lbs is considered a superload by the PA DOT.

You are allowed to travel from sunrise to sunset in most areas in PA as long as it’s not within larger city limits. Ultimately you will need to refer to your permit as with most states for exact times of travel. There is no travel allowed on Sundays but you are permitted to travel until Noon on Saturdays. If you are overweight only your permit will allow you 24 hour travel 7 days a week up to 107,000 lbs. For mobile home shipments that are 16′ in width or more you are not allowed to travel of Friday or Saturday. The following holidays are no travel days as well: New Years day, Memorial day, Independence day, Labor day, Thanksgiving day and Christmas day. You may only travel up until noon on the day before the holiday if it is on a weekday.

When pilot cars are required.If you max out over any of the below you will be required to have at least one pilot car or escort vehicle:

Length: On all roads if your shipment is over 90′ in length you will require at least one rear (chase) pilot car.Width: 2 lanes over 13′ wide requires one front and one rear pilot car/escort. 3 lanes up to 13′ only requires one chase.Height: If your shipment is over 14′ 6″ in height you will be required to have a high pole escort vehicle with your load.Weight: Not required as long as truck can maintain minimum posted traffic sppeds.Overhang: This is decided on a case by case basis.

The information contained in these pages is research information primarily for use by oversize and overweight trucking company drivers, dispatchers and pilot car companies. While every effort is put into maintaining the accuracy of this information you must absolutely verify this information with the Pennsylvania State DOT Permits office before commencing movement.